Painting roofs white

Sometimes the simplest solutions can have huge impacts. Indeed, painting dark roofs white can decrease by up to a fifth buildings air conditioning use. Generalized globally, this could make a big difference.

Scientists at the Concordia University estimated that painting one percent of the world’s urban surfaces white could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 130 gigatons over the next 50-100 years.

Additionally, the White Roof Project estimates that painting all of the world’s rooftops white by 2030 could save enough emissions to equal the world’s carbon output in 2010.

The NGO has created an interesting infographic to present their project with a lot of valuable data, facts and figures… Please make sure you have a look at it.

We have seen previously that another solution to curb buildings’ energy use and albedo effect in cities is greening rooftops. This solution would provide at least another advantage as it would decrease air pollution. If gardens were planted, they could also feed cities…

Last but not least, adding solar panels to roofs would power the buildings and cities nearby.

As one can see, there is no definitive solutions for our roofs. Which one would you use ? Why ?

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About Edouard

A recent MBA graduate in Sustainable Business and Energy at Presidio Graduate School, Edouard has a passion for transitioning businesses and communities to a carbon neutral future. Experienced in Marketing and Energy, he is currently for hire. Learn out more.